This quote by Eleanor Roosevelt suggests that in any war, regardless of who wins or loses, both parties endure significant suffering. A war is like a boomerang, in the sense that the harm intended for the opponent eventually returns to the instigator. This can be physical, in terms of casualties and devastation, or more abstract, like economic downturns or psychological trauma.
The victor may seem to have gained the upper hand, but the victory often comes at a high price. They may have to bear the burden of rebuilding, face international sanctions or backlash, or deal with the guilt and trauma of the atrocities committed. The vanquished, on the other hand, suffer the immediate effects of defeat - loss of life, destruction of infrastructure, and the psychological impact of defeat.
Applying this concept to today’s world, we can see this in the aftermath of many conflicts. For example, the Iraq War led to significant loss of life and infrastructure, but it also destabilized the region and led to the rise of ISIS. The victors, primarily the USA and its allies, had to bear the economic cost of the war and face international criticism for their actions.
In terms of personal development, this quote can be seen as a caution against engaging in destructive behaviors or conflicts. Just as in war, any form of aggression or harm we inflict on others can eventually come back to hurt us. It could damage our relationships, our reputation, or our mental health. We might win a particular battle or argument, but the overall cost could be much higher than the perceived victory. This is a reminder to choose our battles wisely and to always consider the potential consequences of our actions.
